The one workout Steph Claire Smith will never skip

The instagram star says it’s transformed her physically and mentally, and wants to you try it for yourself in 2018.

Photos: Instagram @stephclairesmith

If you follow me on Instagram, you would’ve noticed I’ve fallen in love with boxing. I was blown away by how effective it was, how it helped me build muscle and how it transformed my mental state. If I’ve had a stressful day or I’m feeling a little nervous about something, I’ll go to my boxing gym and punch it out.

Why boxing?

I joined a boxing gym earlier this year when I wanted to mix up my exercise routine. I had always wanted to give boxing a go; and as soon as I put my gloves on for the first time I was hooked! Boxing works your whole body and strengthens your core like nothing else. Plus, all of that punching, skipping and dodging require a lot of energy, which means you’re burning calories while having fun.

Boxing is one of those exercises that you feel a little funny doing at first, but quickly become addicted to – it doesn’t take long to see and feel an improvement in your coordination and technique. The feeling I get after every session; being puffed, sweaty and strong is definitely what’s addictive about it.

Now, try this

Keep It Cleaner, my new health and wellness program (created with Laura Henshaw) includes weekly boxing sessions to help women get strong, fit and happy. So, if you want to learn to box in the comfort of your own home, KIC will teach you some fun moves and combos in short yet intense sessions.

If you’re new to boxing, here are four combos to get you started (box with a friend to double the fun).

1. Jab cross

Begin with your feet hip-width apart and opposite leg forward. To jab, throw a punch with the lead hand from the guard position with your fist rotating to become horizontal. As the punch reaches full extension, the lead shoulder can be brought up to guard the chin, while the rear hand remains next to the face to guard your jaw. Then to cross, throw a straight punch across your body originating from your strongest hand (rear hand).

2. Shadow boxing with dumbbells

Begin with your feet hip-width apart and opposite leg forward. Hold weights at chest height with elbows bent and palms facing each other. Extend your left arm across your body until weight is in line with your right shoulder – your thumb should be facing down with your arm parallel to the ground. As you return to the start, repeat with the right arm.

3. Jab cross slip cross

Go the distance with this combo. Begin with your opposite foot forward. Repeat the jab cross move. Then to slip, transfer the weight from one leg to the other while subtly moving your upper body to avoid the opponent’s punch. Finish this combo with another cross.

4. Jab, cross, left hook, right uppercut

This combo introduces the hook and uppercut, and requires a little more coordination. Begin in fighter’s stance and throw a jab cross. To add a hook, shift your body weight to your lead foot, pivot and use the power from your hip and torso to swing your fist horizontally towards your opponent. Then to throw an uppercut, start with your left elbow against your ribs and your knuckles turned up, then punch upwards as if you’re punching someone under the chin. Keeping your core tight, pull back as you bend your knees, sitting back on your heels.